Your Social Security Number (SSN) is a sensitive piece of personal information that, if exploited, can have catastrophic implications. Your social security number may already be available online, sometimes even in unlawful marketplaces. However, there are ways to protect it and keep it from being exploited against you.
Your social security number (SSN) is a unique identifier associated with a large amount of personal information. This number is associated with numerous important elements of your financial life, including your credit history, government benefits, and job records.
Why it’s essential to protect your Social Security Number
If someone acquires access to your Social Security number, they may use it to apply for credit, open bank accounts, claim tax refunds, or even get a job in your name. This is why it’s critical to keep your Social Security number private and recognize indicators of misuse.
The government provides a tool called Self Lock that allows you to prevent your SSN from being utilized in employment verifications. This program, offered through E-Verify, is free and prohibits anyone from using your Social Security number to obtain a job without your permission.
To activate Self Lock, you must first have an E-Verify account. Alternatively, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly at 1-800-772-1213 to seek a lock on your SSN, however there may be some wait time.
How to monitor your earnings and benefits
The Social Security Administration offers an online portal called my Social Security, where people can track their earnings and benefits. It is free to create an account on this site, and it is recommended that you check for any inconsistencies on a frequent basis.
Even if you are not currently receiving benefits, monitoring your account at least once a year is recommended to confirm that all recorded earnings correspond to your real work history. If your account is more than three years old, you may need to upgrade your access via Login.gov or ID.me to continue using this platform.
Signs that someone might be using your Social Security Number
If someone is using your SSN without permission, there are several warning signs that could alert you to suspicious activity.
Unexpected bills or accounts
Receiving bills or notices for accounts you have not opened is one of the most obvious signals that your SSN has been hacked. If someone exploits your identity to apply for credit or set up services, you will most likely receive notification of a payment requirement. In this situation, contact the issuer right away to report the fraud, and consider freezing your credit to avoid further problems.
Tax forms from unknown employers
Receiving tax documents from organizations where you’ve never worked, such as W-2s or 1099s, may suggest that someone exploited your Social Security number to secure employment. Employment-related fraud can cause problems with the IRS and result in tax concerns. If you find yourself in this circumstance, contact the IRS right once to avoid any potential legal or financial issues.
Issues with your tax return
Receiving a notification from the IRS claiming that a tax return has already been filed in your name is a red flag that someone is using your Social Security number to claim benefits.
This is a popular approach for thieves to obtain refunds that rightfully belong to you. If this happens, report the fraud right away at IdentityTheft.gov. You may also need to fill out Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) to formalize the claim.
Unfamiliar activity in your credit report
Checking your credit report for unusual behavior is another approach to discover unlawful use of your SSN. If you discover new accounts or credit lines that you did not apply for, it is possible that someone is using your information.
You are entitled to one free credit report each year from each of the three major credit agencies, which may be obtained from AnnualCreditReport.com. A useful technique is to seek a report from one bureau every four months to ensure ongoing monitoring.
Denial of government benefits
If you are refused benefits to which you are entitled, such as disability, Medicare, or unemployment aid, it is possible that someone else is claiming these benefits using your Social Security number. In this case, call the proper agency, explain your situation, and follow their directions to reinstate your benefits.
What to do if you suspect identity theft
If you think that your Social Security number has been stolen or used unlawfully, you must act immediately. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides a thorough guidance at IdentityTheft.gov, where you can fill out a form and receive a specific action plan for recovering your identity.
You can also call your bank and credit card companies, as well as the IRS, to report identity theft. Many banking institutions provide free identity theft protection services to assist you monitor your position and avoid fraud.
Protecting your Social Security number necessitates ongoing monitoring and preventive measures. Although identity theft can have serious repercussions, constant monitoring and use of existing technologies can help you reduce your risks.
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